“The cows are about N1–1.5m each, multiply this by 30 something cows, It’s not small money–Herder
According to a NewsVista report, heartbreak and mystery have gripped the Osara community in Abeokuta after a bolt of lightning killed 32 cows in a single strike, leaving a herdsman, Abdullahi Idris, in deep shock and financial ruin.
The tragedy occurred around noon on Saturday, June 22, as a thunderstorm rolled through the Obantoko area in Odeda LGA. What started as typical rainy weather suddenly turned deadly when lightning struck the grazing field, instantly killing the cattle.
“I’ve only ever heard about this on the radio—never thought it would happen to me,” Idris said. The cows, mostly large and mature, were valued at between ₦1 million and ₦1.5 million each. “It’s not small money,” he added, estimating his total loss at over ₦32 million.
The emotional toll has been devastating for Idris, a father of six who relies entirely on livestock for survival. Residents say they’ve never seen anything like this before, and the village remains stunned by the bizarre incident.
While some see it as a freak act of nature, others are calling it a spiritual sign. The Oba Isegun General of Ewekoro, Oba Ololade Sunday, suggested that the Yoruba god of thunder, Sango, might be expressing anger. In Yoruba tradition, Sango is known to punish with fire and lightning when displeased.
Whether natural or supernatural, the tragedy has left a heavy cloud over the community—and a herder wondering how to rebuild from such a sudden and massive loss.
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